Heavy snowfall has closed the Islamabad–Murree Expressway (N-75) for general traffic, with access limited to locals and emergency services as authorities issue safety warnings.
Heavy Snowfall Shuts Islamabad–Murree Expressway
Heavy winter snowfall has led authorities to close the Islamabad–Murree Expressway (N-75) for general traffic. The decision was taken after continuous snow made driving conditions unsafe, especially on the steep and curved stretches leading up to Murree.
In an alert shared by the National Highways and Motorway Police, the district administration announced that the entry point at Phoolgaran Toll Plaza has been temporarily closed for regular vehicles. Officials say the move is meant to prevent traffic jams, roadside emergencies and accidents at a time when visibility and road grip are badly affected by snow and ice.
The closure is part of a broader winter response, as authorities try to manage tourist inflows and protect residents following warnings of an extended spell of snowfall in Murree and surrounding hill areas. Similar measures have been taken in the past when visitor numbers surged despite difficult weather.
Who Can Still Use the Murree Expressway?
Although the Murree Expressway has been closed for general traffic, it remains open for local residents and emergency services. This means that people who live in nearby areas and need to travel for essential reasons, as well as ambulances, rescue vehicles and other official units, can still use the route under monitoring by the authorities.
Officials have stressed that tourists and non-resident visitors should not attempt to use alternative routes or pressure staff at toll plazas to allow entry. Any unnecessary movement during such conditions increases the risk of vehicles getting stuck, blocking the road or requiring rescue operations that could otherwise be avoided.
The administration is closely watching traffic volumes and weather updates, and will reopen the road for regular traffic only when conditions are considered safe.
Travel Risks in Snow and Hilly Areas
Driving in heavy snowfall, especially in hilly and mountainous regions like Murree, comes with serious risks. Snow and ice can quickly make roads slippery, reducing tyre grip and making it difficult to brake or steer safely. Even experienced drivers can face problems when a vehicle skids on an icy patch or loses control on a slope.
Visibility is another major challenge. Falling snow and thick fog can limit how far a driver can see, making it hard to react to curves, stopped vehicles, pedestrians or animals on the road. This is particularly dangerous on sharp turns and narrow sections of the expressway where there is little margin for error.
Overloaded vehicles, worn-out tyres and lack of snow chains further add to the risk. Every winter, reports of stranded cars, long traffic jams and emergency evacuations from hill stations serve as a reminder that recreational trips should never be prioritised over safety.
Important Advice for Travelers and Families
Authorities have strongly advised people to avoid unnecessary travel to Murree and nearby hill stations until the weather improves and the road is officially reopened. Families planning leisure trips are encouraged to postpone their plans instead of trying to “take a chance” on the weather or relying on unofficial information.
If travel is absolutely essential, vehicles should be properly winter-ready. This includes checking tyres, brakes, lights and wipers, keeping extra warm clothing, blankets, water, food and phone chargers in the car, and ensuring that the fuel tank is sufficiently filled. However, even a fully prepared vehicle cannot remove the core weather risk, which is why listening to official advisories remains crucial.
Travelers are also urged to keep track of updates from the National Highways and Motorway Police, local administration and weather departments. Relying on social media rumours or old news can lead to poor decisions. Waiting for a clear green signal before heading towards Murree is the safest way to protect your family and avoid being stranded in harsh winter conditions.
